(Almost) Wordless Wednesday- now with bonus words

Happy Hump Day y’all. You doing anything special to celebrate?

Some of you are stuck filing TPS reports; or studying for the GRE, LSAT, MCAT or whatever acronymated entrance exam you need to ace to get into grad school; the busiest of you are feeding, shuttling, counseling and cleaning a herd of crazed animals that happen to share your last name.

Then there’s us. Bleary-eyed from an all-nighter spent staring deeply into our laptops, hoping for a meaningful connection with our muse. PJ’s and teeth in need of serious scrubbing. We, we merry band of bloggers, we know how to usher in the mid-week festivities. Might I suggest a soothing after-breakfast nap to go with that morning breath? Go on… you’ve earned it.

But before you nod off, I had an epiphany a few weeks ago that I’m ready to share. Don’t worry, it’s not so exciting that it will make falling asleep any more difficult. And I’ll need a few sentences to setup, so you have plenty of warning before the big reveal.

The setup

Somehow, I let myself get overwhelmed again. I’ve found so many interesting blogs to follow (yeah, I’m talking to you) that my daily WordPress Reader routine gobbles up huge swaths of my day. Then there’s Art Therapy, which is an essential ingredient in my balanced mental health diet. All too often, the sun is down and Monica is wondering where dinner is before I start writing.

This passion project (inspire, entertain, and occasionally educate an engaged group of loyal readers) has become a relentless taskmaster. I love it, but I’ll probably burn out if I keep up this pace.

The epiphany (finally)

On (Almost) Wordless Wednesday’s, I will combine these three obsessions (reading blogs, digital painting, and writing).

Since I’m already loving the photos, and the mental images created from the blog posts I read, these will be the subjects of my sketches, at least until we get 32-hour days back again. And I’ll include links to their blogs so you can appreciate the original.

I think it’s like synergy, but better-er. Let me know what you think (and if you’re a blogger with an image or post that you want to challenge me with, feel free to include a link in the comments and I’ll see what I can do).

Nexi at Time Nexus took us on a photo tour of London shops along the Thames. Tucked in the middle of these images was a door that haunted me, despite its innocent appearance. I can almost see Jacob Marley materializing from the knocker. I guess that makes me Scrooge.

If you squint, you can almost see the screaming face warning you about what’s on the other side of this door.

Another amazing photographer, Ray Laskowitz at Storyteller, took us to the brighter side of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. I wish I could recreate the vibrant, colorful glow he captured on this woman’s face. You should head over to check out the original.

Last Week’s Alliteration Winners

I’m humble enough to admit that I can be an incredibly gracious loser when the situation calls for it. This is not one of those situations.

Buried in the last 2 posts were a few playful attempts to include strings of alliteration. Several of you picked up the gauntlet and replied in the comments with several impressive alliteration strings of your own. Brad, who likes to show off, shared 2.

Eddie my Internal Editor

Eddie isn’t very impressed, but I’ve convinced him participation trophies are in order. Hope Snickers satisfy, but we all know, Snickers always satisfies. And since this sketch is virtual. You get to have your Snickers and enjoy it too. Without the need to burn off the calories. Your welcome.

Participation trophies for Steveo, Arionis and Brad. This is one of those prizes that won’t ruin your appetite for dinner, but still reminds you of the good things in life.

One last thought:

To those that think trying to teach temperance and timidity to this teller of tall tales through tantalizing tidbits and taunting tributes, I tell you: Tis truly time to throw in the towel.

One last, last thought:

Even though some would argue that awarding participation trophies shouldn’t be included in the total word count, there still might be a FEW too many words for this to be an (Almost) Wordless Wednesday. Next week will be (Almost) better. Thanks for playing and have a relaxing Hump day!

This is a wonderfully whimsical way to indulge the wayward wandering habit that WordPress has woefully instilled in that wacky, sharp-witted, wise brain of yours!

In all seriousness, I’m so glad you’re taking up the gauntlet and exploring the photos of others with your art. Not only is it a wonderful gift to them, it is a gift to yourself… processing your arm chair travel and developing connections to others in this world with your creative outlet. Sketch-on! I can’t wait to see and experience the result.

You are so thoughtful, Gabe and are so encouraging to other bloggers. Right now I am working on a post I have been working on for a week because I just can’t seem to get my shit together. Seeing your post inspires me to get it done. And of course you created great sketches as usual – I seriously love them! But thanks a lot, now I want a damn snickers bar!! Umm…not cool, Gabe. 🙂

If it makes you feel any better, I’ve been working up to this post for a nearly 3 weeks. Still have doubts about whether I can handle 2 posts per week (and more importantly, whether YOU all can handle 2 posts from me a week), but if so long as the color these posts adds to your day is meaningful, I’m going to keep it up.

I’m really excited to read your next post. I’m waiting on Snickers and Skittles (There’s too much nastiness in the world to add anymore Pins and Needles) No pressure. But seriously woman… 😉

Your posts are very meaningful, so don’t you dare wonder for a second if we can handle it. WE CAN!! Snickers and Skittles…I love that and agree completely. I am on it Gabe, and hope to deliver something worthwhile to your inbox very soon! ?

And if you’re wanting some photographic inspiration, James is a photographer, living in the Yorkshire Dales region of England and his photos are incredible… moody, atmospheric and full of colour. What I love about his posts, though they are often very short, is that they detail his one man hunt for ancient stones and monoliths throughout the countryside. When he finds them on his off-the-beaten-path hikes, he photographs them and then shares what he learns when he researches them. Try this post, and you’ll see what I mean. https://smackedpentax.wordpress.com/2017/01/27/the-witches-stone/

Wow Sheri! You weren’t kidding. James takes some amazing photos – the header image alone is breathtaking. When I get a chance to catch my breath (Monica says we need to go to the gym because I’m starting to rediscover my belly) I’m planning to settle in and get to know his neck of the blogosphere better. Thanks -this is EXACTLY what I was hoping for.

Oh… and not that you need more people to add to your ever growing list of blogs-to-read, but Patrick is a man who takes stunning photos, and then writes poetry to go with them. It looks like he’s back in Canada now (I think he lives in the Whistler are of BC and he just got back from a lengthy trip in India). Check this out… https://pixtowords.com/2017/03/15/kindred-spirits/ … it’s today’s post. To see, at a glance, thumbnail images and his poems that go with them, scroll down through this page… https://pixtowords.com/archive/ Enjoy!

It’s far too early in the A.M. here in Albuquerque for an awkward attempt at assembling an alliterative answer. But I do have a sketch challenge for you. This sort of feels like shameless self-promotion, but you asked for it and my last post was one of the few I’ve written that seems like it would lend itself to some good, perhaps stark sketches. Not so much the first few paragraphs, but further down when I finally start describing some of the more colorful denizens of the city: https://twovoicesinonetransmission.com/2017/03/13/pitiful-pity/ Although it’s possible that the type of images this brings to mind will be depressing and hence unenjoyable to undertake.

Great work Gabe! I love the stories and especially your art. You’ve found that special niche to display all your talents. I think I’ll find a different way to celebrate Hump Day. The weather in Colorado is projected to hit 23C, so I’m going to grab my mountain bike and travel over a nice, scenic Hump today. Stay well and make sure to give yourself a Snickers prize for all your good work.

Dad! Thanks for stopping by! I know I’m getting overly excited with the exclamation marks, but it’s great to see you pop in here, especially when you’re in perfect part of the season.
Skiing fresh tracks during the day, and mountain biking in the cool breezes of the Colorado foothills in the evening.
It’s enough to make me want to get a plane ticket back to the states -strictly for quality control purposes of course.
Have fun!

What a great idea to combine your passions, hobbies and talents (at least some of them) in one day and project. I’m still trying to figure out how I can prioritize and have more hours in the day. Seems impossible! Cutting down from three blogs a week to two, or better, one, is a start I’m hoping to stick to. 🙂

I love your digital images Gabe, dished up with a healthy serving of humor and fun. 🙂 Thank you for the almost wordless Wednesday respite. I’m humbly accept the digital reward and surrender to the master of alliteration. I like your process to integrate your passions. I also let images I find or create be the muse to start a poem or post. Musty muses might meet in mellow meandering meadows…monitoring monthly morel mushrooms on misty mornings.

heheheh I knew I could count on you for a hefty tongue-twister. (Saying that string out loud might have sprained something)
Have an amazing week Brad and thanks so much for sending the extra Grace my way! You are a good man.

Awesome, Gabriel!
I’ll keep an eye out. I’m not sure who I’ve signed up to for email alerts now! A follow doesn’t automatically mean email alert… but I’ll check for your posts the old fashioned way ????

I’ve noticed this problem in the past as well. Here’s a fix if you’re interested:

Don’t know if you use WordPress reader, but if you go to Followed Sites –> manage, then scroll down to my blog. Click on it and you can choose when you’d like to receive notifications (instant, daily, weekly) and sign up for email.

Thank you Gabriel. I did it but it only took me to your latest posts?. So I went to the site and found the email option down the bottom and apparently ‘the email recipient has opted out of email subscriptions!’ Not sure when I did that, as I’ve managed it with others!
Thank you for offering your help anyway. I really appreciate it. I’ll do it again tomorrow maybe on a computer. Have a good day ???

First of all, how did you know I’m sitting at my computer first thing in the morning, still wearing my pajamas and with my teeth still unbrushed? I’ve heard rumors that people can actually watch us through our computers, but until I read this post, I didn’t believe.
Secondly, I love how your art not only captures the essence of the photos, but it actually highlights and enhances it. Dang, I don’t have the words for what I’m trying to say…I can do literary criticism, but ask me what I think about art and all you get is gibberish…but seriously, your art is good!

I’ve heard those rumors too, but I take enormous comfort in the fact that there are far more interesting subjects out there to occupy the attention of any nefarious hacker/surveilance types.
Besides, I played the odds here, describing the typical blogger uniform. So I guess this means you’re shooting for Employee of the Month;)

And as far as the art criticism… “good” sounds great to me. Thanks Ann.

I was particularly excited and intrigued by your mention of getting 32-hour days back again. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced any of those myself, only regular 24-hour days with 32 hours of work crammed into them. I do think they’re a good idea, though. I looked forward to them making a reappearance.

Incidentally, I liked the photos you linked to (your versions and the originals). The woman in the second photograph is certainly unafraid to experiment with make up.

They gave us 32-hr (work) days for the first few years after graduating med school. Now that I’m a lazy retired guy, I have to fly across multiple time zones in order to get those bonus hours. But its just not the same…

Looking back now, med school was a blast (a blast from a fire hose we had to drink down, but still). My life as a military surgeon… not so funny.

However, I’m dedicating the next few years to the important stuff, like after breakfast naps, a bit of doodling, and following the orders of my real boss (househusbanding isn’t nearly as easy as advertised, but it’s worth the benefits).

I’d say you have an incredible talent for understatement, Gabe. In any list of the all-time most stressful jobs out there, military surgeon must surely be up near the top somewhere. I genuinely can’t think of many tougher ones.

Your sketches are awesome! You are very talented. I’m sure you have already had a million requests to do them for other blog images. I have an upcoming post with a hiking related image that I would love to see sketched by you. I know you are super busy though so I might hit you up later if you’re interested.

Thanks for the Snickers Participation Trophy! I only eat Snickers when I am out on the trail and the fact that it’s arranged in the AT symbol is pure gold! I’m printing that out and hanging it above my writing station.

One last thought:

Holy hell man! You brought your A-Game on that alliterative string. At this point in time, I’m not even going to attempt a response. Consider the towel thrown in.

I know right! I was waiting for someone to give me the setup so I could humblebrag. That whole string came to me fully formed right before I went to sleep over the weekend. I’m friggin’ brilliant right ;)))

And I’d be happy to try to work on a sketch for you. Just send me a quick comment here with the link when you’ve written it and I’ll put it in the cue. But you’re absolutely right… I’m pretty slow, so you’ll have to give me a bit to get it worked up. Cheers!

OK, it’s been awhile but I finally got that post up. I know you are super busy with your travels right now but if you get a chance I would love to see the image titled “Where we’re going we don’t need roads” sketched in your style. But please Gabe, only if you have the time and you really want to do it. I would totally understand if you couldn’t. Hope all is well in your world.

Loved your post! There were so many sympathetic laughs. Ironically, reading it reactivated my hiking itch. And I’ve saved a copy of the image. I’m Waaaaaaayyyyyy behind on everything related to the blogiverse, including sketching, but when we get back to Bucharest, I’m going to get right to work on this. I can already see something that you may enjoy. When it’s finished, I’ll be sure to send you a copy. Cheers!

I can relate to the time and effort – although it’s a labor of love – that it takes to maintain a blog, including visiting others and commenting. I was a little concerned that you were going to say that you were stopping or slowing down. I’m happy to read that you are actually synerging, but better-er! You do realize that we – your loyal minions – will be vying for the favor of a digital painting of one of our photos.

Yes exactly Janis, “a labor of love.” I think (hope) that rather than slowing down, I’m going to find a reasonable blogging pace. Regardless of my blogging pace, this won’t change my visits to your blog. I know better than to give up the good stuff 😉

I love the blithering creativity in this post (and I mean that as a compliment). It’s free form and off the cuff–and so few of us do that anymore:). I hope you had a nice red before bed and created some more . . .

…sorry for the delay in catching up on your post, have been away. Think the sketch effects on the stonework and the door are stunning. Can endorse earlier comments on Smacked Pentax – have been following for some time and posts are always atmospheric and high standard.

I like Eddie your internal editor. I’ll have to find a pic for mine.
There is so much color, light, movement, and energy here. It might take me a bit to get to know your blog better. Be patient with me as I navigate.

I’m glad you like my sketch of Eddie. He and I have a love-hate relationship. Hope the relationship you have with your inner editor is less traumatic 😉

It’s always great to welcome a fellow blogger, especially one that arrives bearing wonderful compliments! And please, take all the time you need to settle in and explore at your leisure. We’re just getting started here.

Great sketches … I always find them to be.
YUP … you haven’t gotten the hang of WW. It’s wordless.
But, don’t give a dam. You’re getting people here despite how many words you add.
I say throw the rules out the window. LOL
Isadora ?

Gabe, I just revisited this blog post, and I want to tell you how inspired I am by your blog, and by your hiking and photos. You have a lot to share, and I hope you continue to blog! If you ever want to share something for Forgiving Fridays, it would be lovely. To contribute, just write a blog on forgiveness (can be very creative), include a pingback to my post, and use hashtag #ForgivingFridays. Thanks again Gabe for your awesome blog. Many blessings!!!